MTFCA Forum

Hi, I have a about 2 years old reproduction ignition switch. The black painted light switch handle and part that covers the outside of the key switch came off. Now the lights are on all the time. Is there a way to fix this? I have already sent off my original key switch to get rebuilt by Ben Martin but that is going to be some weeks before it is ready. -- IV

The Ben Martin repaired switch will be the long term solution, in the mean time I would just disconnect the headlight and tail light wires at the switch and make do untill the Martin rebuild shows up.

add a toggle switch while you wait

There "should" be 2 tangs on the handle - try to re-insert and merely turn until the lights go off OR it would be easier to remove the lighting wires off the firewall terminal.

I suggest that you go to one of the guys here who sells used or NOS parts and get an OEM one. If an NOS isn't available, reconditioning a good used one is better than one of the repros.

I've been very satisfied with 95% of the repro items I've purchased from Langs, Snyders, etc, but anything ignition/light switch related has proven to be a dissapointment. For instance...the ignition switch key tumbler I purchased was unusable without modification.

Thanks, yes since I received the reproduction key switch unit, the key easily falls out of the switch so I have to turn it then put it in my pocket while under way or else it will fall out. Is that normal? -- IV

ivaldes1 wrote: ↑

Fri Nov 01, 2019 6:17 pm

Thanks, yes since I received the reproduction key switch unit, the key easily falls out of the switch so I have to turn it then put it in my pocket while under way or else it will fall out. Is that normal? -- IV

It needs to be repaired or replaced.
In the meantime, try some of that non-hardening glue that's in glue sticks.

No, you should not be able to remove the key when turned to either position - that's what the tumblers are there for, I believe.

I have also always been able to start the car with the reproduction switch using a screw driver only, any screw driver. Is that normal?

The earliest keys (1914-1919 were not much more than a flat piece of metal, and a small, flat screwdriver would turn it. They got a little more sophisticated after that with a few tumblers and eventually grooved keys, but nothing like the locks of today.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eoCLY354FZk